CN117015407A - Breast milk collection kit with optimized colostrum collection - Google Patents

Abstract

A colostrum collection container (208), the colostrum collection container comprising: a body (224), the body (224) having a first opening (224 a) configured to receive a breastshield and a second opening (224 b) configured to be operatively coupled to a vacuum generator; a divider (228), the divider (228) being sealingly disposed within the body; and an aperture (232), the aperture (232) being provided on the divider. A divider (228) is disposed within the body, and a first chamber (242) is disposed between the first opening and the divider and a second chamber (246) is disposed between the divider and the second opening. An orifice (232) fluidly couples the first and second chambers, and a fluid flow path extends from the first opening (224 a) through the orifice (232) and to the second opening (224 b). So configured, the first fluid is collected in the first chamber (242) with the assistance of gravity while the second fluid flows from the first chamber to the second chamber (246) through the fluid flow path.

Description

Breast milk collection kit with optimized colostrum collection

Cross Reference to Related Applications

The present application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional application No.63/131,923 filed on 12 months of 2021. The entire contents of the present application are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to devices and methods used during milk expression. In particular, the present disclosure relates to devices and methods for more efficiently and effectively collecting colostrum during milk discharge.

Background

Just prior to delivery, the mother begins to produce colostrum which is critical to the health, growth and vitality of the neonate. In particular, colostrum typically includes a large amount of bioactive compounds that contribute to the health, growth and vitality of newborns when compared to mature milk. For example, colostrum contains antibodies, immune and growth factors that protect newborns from diseases and infections, as well as other bioactive agents that help activate the newborns immune system, rapidly initiate intestinal function, and culture healthy intestinal microbiomes during the first few days of birth. However, colostrum is a highly viscous liquid that will adhere to or otherwise adhere to a surface upon contact with the surface. Thus, during milk discharge, colostrum often contacts and adheres to the surface of the device for discharging milk. Disadvantageously, during milk discharge, colostrum may be lost when the discharged milk flows through the means for discharging milk.

Disclosure of Invention

According to a first aspect, a colostrum collection container comprises: a body having a first opening configured to receive a breastshield and a second opening configured to be operatively coupled to a vacuum generator; a divider sealingly disposed within the body such that a first chamber is disposed between the first opening and the divider and a second chamber is disposed between the divider and the second opening; an orifice disposed on the divider such that the orifice fluidly couples the first chamber and the second chamber; and a fluid flow path extending from the first opening of the body, through the aperture of the divider, and to the second opening of the body. According to the first aspect, when a vacuum is generated in at least one of the first chamber and the second chamber, the first fluid is collected in the first chamber with the assistance of gravity while the second fluid flows from the first chamber to the second chamber through the fluid flow path.

According to a first aspect, the body may comprise a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The first opening may be disposed at the first end and the second opening may be disposed at the second end.

According to the first aspect, the first fluid may be more viscous than the second fluid.

According to the first aspect, the first fluid may be one or more of colostrum and/or milk, and the second fluid may be at least one of air and/or milk.

According to a first aspect, the body may comprise a lip extending radially outwardly from the first opening.

According to a first aspect, the lip may be integrally formed with the body.

According to a first aspect, the divider may be sealingly coupled to the body proximate the first opening.

According to a first aspect, the divider may comprise at least one visual indicator specifying a maximum fluid capacity of the body.

According to a first aspect, the aperture may be provided on the divider such that the second fluid may flow from the first chamber to the second chamber through the fluid flow path when the first fluid in the first chamber is below the at least one visual indicator.

According to a first aspect, the aperture may be provided on the divider such that the first fluid and the second fluid may flow from the first chamber to the second chamber through the fluid flow path when the first fluid in the first chamber is at or above the at least one visual indicator.

According to a first aspect, the cover may be sealingly coupled to the body. The cap may have a base and a sealing member extending from the base to at least the aperture when the cap is coupled to the body, thereby sealing the aperture.

According to a first aspect, the visual indicator of the at least one visual indicator may be oriented at an angle relative to the vertical axis of the body such that when the body is tilted, the visual indicator of the at least one visual indicator specifies a maximum fluid capacity of the body.

According to a second aspect, a colostrum collection container comprises: a body having a first opening configured to receive a breastshield and a second opening; a receiver sealingly disposed within the body, the receiver having an aperture configured to fluidly couple the first and second openings of the body; and a fluid flow path extending from the first opening through the aperture and to the second opening. According to a second aspect, the first fluid flows through the first opening of the body and is collected in the receptacle with the aid of gravity, and the second fluid flows through the first opening, the orifice and the second opening of the body.

According to a second aspect, the body may comprise a lip extending radially outwardly from the first opening.

According to a second aspect, the lip may be integrally formed with the body.

According to a second aspect, the body may comprise a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The first opening may be disposed at a first end of the body and the second opening is disposed at a second end of the body.

According to a second aspect, the first fluid may be one or more of colostrum and/or milk, and the second fluid may be at least one of air and/or milk.

According to a second aspect, the receptacle may be sealingly arranged in the body adjacent to the first opening of the body.

According to a second aspect, the receptacle may comprise at least one visual indicator specifying a maximum fluid capacity of the body.

According to a second aspect, the aperture may be provided on the receptacle such that when the first fluid in the receptacle is below the at least one visual indicator, the second fluid may pass from the first opening through the aperture and to the second opening of the body.

According to a second aspect, the aperture may be provided on the receptacle such that when the first fluid in the receptacle is at or above the at least one visual indicator, the first fluid and the second fluid may pass through the aperture from the first opening and flow to the second opening of the body.

According to a second aspect, a cover sealingly coupled to the body is included. The cap may have a base and a sealing member extending from the base to at least the aperture when the cap is coupled to the body, thereby sealing the aperture.

According to a second aspect, the visual indicator of the at least one visual indicator may be oriented at an angle relative to the vertical axis of the body such that when the body is tilted, the visual indicator of the at least one visual indicator may specify a maximum fluid capacity of the body.

According to a third aspect, a breast milk discharge system includes a breastshield, a colostrum collection container releasably coupled to the breastshield, and a connector coupled to a second opening of the colostrum collection container. The colostrum collecting container comprises: a body having a first opening for receiving a breastshield and a second opening disposed opposite the first opening; a receiver sealingly disposed within the body, the receiver having an aperture fluidly coupling the first and second openings of the body; and a fluid flow path extending from the first opening through the aperture and to the second opening. According to a third aspect, when a vacuum is created in the fluid flow path, the first fluid is collected in the receptacle with the aid of gravity and the second fluid flows through the orifice and to the second opening.

According to a third aspect, the spill container may be releasably received by the connector, and the vacuum generator is fluidly coupled to the connector and the colostrum collection container.

According to a third aspect, an assembly guide may be provided adjacent the first opening of the colostrum collection container. The assembly guide may extend radially outward from the first opening and may facilitate coupling the breastshield to the colostrum collection container.

According to a third aspect, the assembly guide may be integrally formed with the body of the colostrum collection container.

According to a third aspect, the body of the colostrum collection container may comprise a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The first opening may be disposed at the first end and the second opening is disposed at the second end.

According to a third aspect, the first fluid may be one or more of colostrum and/or milk and the second fluid may be at least one of air and/or milk.

According to a third aspect, the receptacle may be sealingly coupled to the body proximate the first opening.

According to a third aspect, the receptacle may comprise at least one visual indicator showing a maximum filling level of the receptacle.

According to a third aspect, the aperture may be provided on the receptacle such that when the first fluid disposed in the receptacle is below the at least one visual indicator, the second fluid may flow from the first opening through the aperture and to the second opening of the body.

According to a third aspect, the aperture may be provided on the receptacle such that when a first fluid disposed in the receptacle is at or above the at least one visual indicator, the first fluid and the second fluid may flow from the first opening through the aperture and to the second opening of the body.

According to a third aspect, the cover may be sealingly coupled to the body. The cap may have a base and a sealing member extending from the base to at least the aperture when the cap is coupled to the body, thereby sealing the aperture.

According to a third aspect, the visual indicator of the at least one visual indicator may be oriented at an angle relative to the vertical axis of the body such that when the body is tilted, the visual indicator of the at least one visual indicator may specify a maximum fluid capacity of the body.

According to a fourth aspect, a method of collecting colostrum during milk discharge comprises: providing a colostrum collection container comprising a first opening, a second opening, a receiving portion provided between the first opening and the second opening and having an orifice, and a fluid flow path comprising the first opening and the second opening and the orifice; and collecting the first fluid in the receptacle of the colostrum collection container using gravity assist and vacuum while continuing to flow the second fluid from the first opening through the orifice and to the second opening of the colostrum collection container.

According to a fourth aspect, providing the colostrum collection container may further comprise providing at least one visual indicator on the body such that a visual indicator of the at least one visual indicator specifies the maximum fluid capacity of the body.

According to a fourth aspect, collecting the first fluid may further comprise collecting the first fluid in the receptacle while flowing the second fluid from the receptacle to the second opening through the fluid flow path when the first fluid in the receptacle is below the at least one visual indicator.

According to a fourth aspect, collecting the first fluid may further comprise collecting the first fluid in the receptacle until the first fluid in the receptacle is at or above the at least one visual indicator, at which time at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid flows from the receptacle to the second opening through the fluid flow path.

According to a fourth aspect, the method may include coupling a cap to the first opening of the colostrum collection container, the cap having a sealing member extending to at least the aperture when the cap is coupled to the first opening.

According to a fourth aspect, providing the colostrum collection container may comprise providing a visual indicator on the body, the visual indicator being oriented at an angle relative to the vertical axis of the body such that when the body is tilted, the visual indicator specifies the maximum fluid capacity of the body.

According to a fourth aspect, the method may further comprise creating a vacuum in a portion of the fluid flow path and selectively allowing fluid to flow from the first opening to the second opening of the colostrum collection container via the aperture and the vacuum.

According to a fifth aspect, a method of assembling a colostrum collection vessel comprises: providing a body having a first opening and a second opening; disposing a receiver within the body and coupling a portion of the receiver to the body, the receiver including a wall having an aperture; and forming a fluid flow path including the first and second openings and the aperture of the receptacle such that when a vacuum is created in the fluid flow path, the first fluid is allowed to collect in the receptacle and the second fluid is allowed to flow through the aperture and to the second opening.

According to a fifth aspect, the method may include disposing an assembly guide proximate to the first opening of the body.

According to a fifth aspect, the method may include coupling the breastshield to the first opening of the body using an assembly guide.

According to a fifth aspect, the method may include providing at least one visual indicator on the body such that a visual indicator of the at least one visual indicator specifies a maximum fluid capacity of the body.

According to a fifth aspect, forming the fluid flow path may include forming an aperture in the receptacle such that when the first fluid in the receptacle is below the at least one visual indicator, the second fluid flows from the first opening through the aperture and to the second opening of the body.

According to a fifth aspect, forming the fluid flow path may include forming an aperture on the receptacle such that when the first fluid in the receptacle is at or above the at least one visual indicator, the first fluid and the second fluid flow from the first opening through the aperture and to the second opening of the body.

According to a fifth aspect, the method may include coupling a cap to the first opening of the body, the cap having a sealing member that extends through the aperture when the cap is coupled to the first opening of the body.

Drawings

These and other features and advantages of the various examples disclosed herein will be better understood with reference to the following description and drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram depicting a breast milk discharge system constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of an example breast milk ejection system constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of the breast milk ejection system of FIG. 2A taken along line A-A of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the breast milk ejection system of FIG. 2;

fig. 4 is a perspective view of the exemplary colostrum collection vessel of fig. 2;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the colostrum collection container of FIG. 4 taken along line B-B of FIG. 4;

fig. 6 is a side view of the colostrum collection container of fig. 4 with a cap coupled thereto;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the colostrum collection container of FIG. 2A and an example breastshield;

FIG. 8 is a side view of the colostrum collection container and breastshield of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the colostrum collection container, the breastshield and the connector of the no overflow container of FIG. 2 taken along line A-A of FIG. 2, wherein the fluid flow path therethrough is illustrated when the colostrum collection container is not filled to maximum capacity; and

fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the colostrum collection container, the breastshield and the connector of the no-spill container of fig. 2 taken along line A-A of fig. 2, wherein the fluid flow path therethrough is illustrated when the colostrum collection container is filled to maximum capacity.

Detailed Description

The colostrum collection container as disclosed herein collects colostrum during milk discharge and maintains a continuous clinical vacuum while allowing fluid flow therethrough. The colostrum collection device is coupled to the breastshield and allows fluid to flow from the breastshield to the connector. So configured, the colostrum collecting means is in contact with the discharged breast milk and colostrum shortly after discharge, which limits the number of surfaces with which the colostrum contacts. Advantageously, this configuration increases the likelihood of collecting the maximum amount of colostrum during milk discharge, because colostrum tends to adhere to the surface due to the high viscosity of the fluid.

As illustrated in fig. 1, an example breast milk evacuation system 100 as disclosed herein includes a breastshield 104, a colostrum collection container 108, a connector 112, and a vacuum generator 116. The colostrum collection vessel 108 is releasably coupled to the breastshield 104 and fluidly coupled to the connector 112. The connector 112 is coupled to an overflow container 113, the overflow container 113 receiving overflow milk, for example during use. A vacuum generator 116 is operably coupled to the connector 112 and the colostrum collection vessel 108 and is capable of generating a vacuum in at least one of the breastshield 104, the colostrum collection vessel 108, and the connector 112. To initiate fluid flow through the breastshield 104 and into and through the colostrum collection container 108, the connector 112 transfers the vacuum generated by the vacuum generator 116 to the breastshield 104. Thus, the vacuum causes the first fluid (e.g., colostrum) to be collected in the colostrum collection container 108 with the assistance of gravity, while the second fluid (e.g., breast milk, air) enters the breastshield 104 and into the colostrum collection container 108. In one example, the first fluid is one or more of colostrum and/or milk and the second fluid is at least one of air and/or milk.

The colostrum collection vessel 108 is configured such that the second fluid passes through the colostrum collection vessel 108 and into the connector 112 while the first fluid is collected in the colostrum collection vessel 108 with the assistance of gravity. This configuration allows the first fluid to be collected shortly after the second fluid is discharged. Early collection of the first fluid during milk discharge advantageously increases the chance of collecting the greatest possible amount of first fluid because the first fluid is more viscous than the second fluid and has fewer interacting surfaces before reaching the colostrum collection container 108. Once the primary milk collection container 108 is filled to maximum capacity with the first fluid, an additional amount of the first fluid, with milk expelled, flows through the primary milk collection container 108 and into the connector 112. Although not illustrated herein, the overflow container may be coupled to a connector 112 that retains the second fluid and an additional amount of the first fluid.

Turning now to fig. 2A, 2B and 3, an example breast milk discharge system 200 is depicted that is similar to the breast milk discharge system 100 illustrated in fig. 1, except that a vacuum generator, for example, is not illustrated. Although not illustrated, it will be appreciated that a vacuum generator, such as vacuum generator 116 of fig. 1, may be operatively coupled to the colostrum collection container of the breast milk discharge system 200 and fall within the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, for ease of reference and to the extent possible, the same or similar components of the breastmilk discharge system 200 of fig. 2A, 2B, and 3 will retain the same reference numerals as outlined above with respect to the breastmilk discharge system 100 of fig. 1, although the reference numerals will be increased by 100.

Much like the breastmilk discharge system 100 of fig. 1, the breastmilk discharge system 200 includes a breastshield 204, a colostrum collection container 208, and a connector 212. The colostrum collection container 208 is configured to receive the breastshield 204, and the breastshield 204 is fluidly connected to the colostrum collection container 208 such that fluid may be transferred from the breastshield 204 to the colostrum collection container 208 and through the colostrum collection container 208. The breastshield 204 has a generally funnel-shaped portion 218 and a sleeve 220 extending from the funnel portion 218. The funnel portion 218 is shaped and sized for receipt onto a breast. A cannula 220, such as a nipple tunnel, directs the second fluid into the colostrum collection container 208 and extends a distance into the colostrum collection container 208. So configured, if not the first surface, the colostrum collection container 208 may be the second surface on which the first fluid and the second fluid contact during draining. This also minimizes, if not alleviates, the sticking of the viscous first fluid to other surfaces before it is collected. The connector 212 is also operatively connected to the overflow receptacle 296.

As depicted in fig. 3, the colostrum collection container 208 includes a body 22 having a first opening 224a and a second opening 224b, the first opening 224a configured to receive the breastshield 204 and the second opening 224b configured to be received by the connector 212 and coupled to the connector 212. The second opening 224b is also configured to be operably coupled to a vacuum generator (e.g., the vacuum generator 116 of fig. 1), such as by way of the connector 212. The body 224 also includes a first end 224c and a second end 224d opposite the first end 224 c. The first opening 224a is provided at the first end 224c and the second opening 224b is provided at the second end 224d.

In addition, the connector 212 includes a housing 288, a first opening 288a, a second opening 288b, and a valve mechanism 292, the valve mechanism 292 being at least partially disposed within the housing 288 between the first opening 288a and the second opening 288 b. For example, the valve mechanism 292 may be any valve mechanism as is known in the art. The second end 288b of the connector 212 may include threads or any suitable mechanism for releasably attaching to an overflow container 296, such as a baby bottle or the like. The connector 212 also includes a channel 300 for directing expelled milk from the colostrum collection container 208 and into the container 296.

As best illustrated in fig. 4 and 5, the colostrum collection vessel 208 comprises: a divider 228, e.g., a receiver, the divider 228 being sealingly disposed within the body 224 proximate the first opening 224a of the body 224; and an aperture 232, the aperture 232 being disposed on the divider 228. As illustrated in fig. 7, the first opening 224a of the body 224 is sized to receive the outer diameter of the sleeve 220 of the breastshield 204. The second opening 224b is sized to be received by the connector 212 (see, e.g., fig. 9), and may, for example, have a smaller diameter than the first opening 224a. The body 224 also includes an assembly guide 234, the assembly guide 234 being disposed proximate the first opening 224a of the colostrum collection container and being configured to guide the breastshield 204 into the first opening 224 and through the first opening 224a. The assembly guide 234 may extend radially outward from the first opening 224a and may be configured to facilitate coupling the breastshield 204 to the colostrum collection container 208. Additionally, the assembly guide 234 may be integrally formed with the body 224 of the colostrum collection container 208. For example, as illustrated in fig. 4 and 5, the assembly guide 234 may be a lip 236 extending radially outward from the first opening 224a. In such an example, the lip 236 may be integrally formed with the body 224. Advantageously, the lip 236 may prevent a user from coupling the first opening 224a of the body 224 to the connector 212 and potentially facilitate assembly of the breast milk discharge system 200.

The divider 228 is sealingly coupled to the body 224 proximate the first opening 224a and extends from the first opening 224a toward the second opening 224b of the body 224. As illustrated in fig. 5, the example divider 228 has a first section 244, a second section 248, an inclined surface 252, and a lip 253. The first section 244 is disposed proximate the first opening 224a of the body 224 and is substantially parallel to the body 224. For example, the first section 244 may be integrally formed with the lip 253, as depicted in fig. 5. The inclined surface 252 extends radially inward from the first section 244 toward the second section 252. The second section 248 extends from the inclined surface 252 at an angle toward the second end 224b of the body 224.

Importantly, and as depicted in fig. 5, the divider 228 is sealingly disposed within the body 224 such that the divider 228 forms a first chamber 242 and a second chamber 246. In particular, the divider 228 is sealingly disposed within the body 224 such that the first chamber 242 is disposed between the first opening 224a of the body 224 and the divider 228. The second chamber 246 is disposed between the divider 240 and the second opening 224b of the body 224. As will be further discussed, when a vacuum is created in at least one of the breastshield 204, the colostrum collection container 208, or the connector 212 (e.g., such as by the vacuum generator 116 of fig. 1), a first fluid (e.g., colostrum, breast milk) is collected in the first chamber 242 with the assistance of gravity, while a second fluid (e.g., breast milk and/or air, etc.) flows from the first chamber 242 to the second chamber 246 through a fluid flow path. Advantageously, the first chamber 242 is configured to initially first contact the expelled milk and colostrum. In so doing, the first chamber 242 may be the first surface that the colostrum contacts, which increases the likelihood of collecting the maximum amount of colostrum. Further, in one example, the first fluid is one or more of colostrum and/or milk and the second fluid is at least one of air and/or milk.

The orifice 232 is disposed on the divider 228 such that a fluid flow path 256 (fig. 9 and 10) is formed from the first opening 224a through the orifice 232 and to the second opening 224b. In particular, the orifice 232 forms a fluid flow path 256 from the first chamber 242 to the second chamber 246. The aperture 232 may be disposed anywhere on the divider 232 such that a fluid flow path 256 is formed from the first opening 224a to the second opening 224b. For example, as illustrated in fig. 4 and 5, the aperture 232 may be disposed on the sloped surface 252 between the first and second sections 244, 248. In such an example, a gap 260 is formed between the divider 228 and the body 224 of the colostrum collection container 108, and the gap 260 provides fluid communication between the aperture 232 and the second opening 224b of the body 224. Thus, fluid flowing into the first opening 224a of the body 224 and through the aperture 232 may flow to the second opening 224b of the body 224 and through the second opening 224b. Further, the aperture 232 may be disposed on the divider 228 such that the aperture 232 is parallel with the divider 228. For example, the aperture 232 may be disposed on the inclined surface 252 of the divider 228 such that the aperture 232 is parallel to the inclined surface 252.

The aperture 232 and the gap 260 cooperate to selectively allow fluid to flow from the first opening 224a of the body 224 to the second opening 224b of the body 224 of the colostrum collecting container 208. In particular, the orientation, size, and placement of the apertures 232, as well as the size and placement of the gaps 260, may be configured such that fluid flows in only one direction. In other words, in this example, fluid flows from the first opening 224a of the body 224 of the colostrum collection container 208 through the aperture 232 and to the second opening 224b of the body 224, but fluid cannot flow from the second opening 224b through the aperture 232 and into the colostrum collection container 208.

As depicted in fig. 4, at least one visual indicator 264 is provided on the colostrum collection container 208, and the at least one visual indicator 264 indicates various fluid levels in the colostrum collection container 208 according to the orientation of the colostrum collection container 208. For example, a first visual indicator 264a of the at least one visual indicator 264 may be disposed on the divider 228 of the colostrum collection container 208. The first visual indicator 264a is oriented at an angle α of less than 90 degrees relative to the vertical axis 268 of the primary milk collection container 208 such that the first visual indicator 264a designates a maximum fluid capacity of the primary milk collection container 208 when the breast milk discharge system 200 is in use. In other words, when the colostrum collection container 208, and more particularly the body 224 of the colostrum collection container 208, is tilted, the first visual indicator 264a of the at least one visual indicator 264 specifies the maximum fluid capacity of the body 224.

As further depicted in fig. 4, the at least one visual indicator 264 may also include a second visual indicator 264b and a third visual indicator 264c. The second visual indicator 264b may be disposed on the body 224 or the divider 228 of the colostrum collection container 208 and designate various fluid levels within the colostrum collection container 208. For example, as illustrated in fig. 4, a second visual indicator 264b is provided on the divider 228 of the colostrum collection container 208 and includes various indicia extending along the height of the divider 228. The second visual indicator 264b is similar to the first visual indicator 264a in that the second visual indicator 264b also specifies the maximum fluid capacity of the colostrum collection container 208. Specifically, in this example, the second visual indicator 264b includes a plurality of indicia associated with the amount of fluid within the divider 228, such as 1 ounce, 3 ounces, 5 ounces, and a maximum amount MAX. However, the second visual indicator 264b differs from the first visual indicator 264a in that the second visual indicator is substantially parallel to the vertical axis 268 of the colostrum collection container 208. Further, the second visual indicator 264b specifies the maximum fluid capacity of the colostrum collection container 208 when the colostrum collection container is oriented in a substantially vertical manner. In other words, the second visual indicator 264b specifies the maximum fluid capacity of the colostrum collection container 208 when the colostrum collection container 208 is upright and stored, for example.

A third visual indicator 264c may also be provided on the body 224 or divider 228 of the colostrum collection container 208 and specify the location of the aperture 232. For example, as illustrated in fig. 4, a third visual indicator 264c is disposed on the body 224 of the colostrum collection container 208. The third visual indicator 264c may be any size and shape that attracts the attention of the user and makes the location of the aperture 232 easily identifiable. For example, the third visual indicator 264c may be a circle disposed on the body 224 of the colostrum collection container 208 and substantially surrounds the aperture 232. So configured, a user may use the third visual indicator 264c to locate the aperture 232 in the event that fluid flow from the first opening 224a to the second opening 224b of the body 224 is interrupted. Thus, the user may then determine whether a blockage in the aperture 232 prevents fluid from flowing from the first opening 224a to the second opening 224b of the body 224.

The at least one visual indicator 264a, 264b, 264c may specify the position of the aperture 232. This may help the user locate the orifice 232 in the event that there is an interruption in the fluid flow through the colostrum collection apparatus 208. For example, the aperture 232 may be disposed on the divider 228 such that when the first fluid disposed in the first chamber 242 is below the at least one visual indicator 264a, 264b, 264c, the second fluid flows from the first chamber 242 to the second chamber 246 through the fluid flow path. In other examples, the aperture 232 may be disposed on the divider 228 such that when the first fluid disposed in the first chamber 242 is at or above the at least one visual indicator 264a, 264b, 264c, the first fluid and the second fluid flow from the first chamber 242 to the second chamber 246 through the fluid flow path.

Referring now to fig. 6, the cap 272 may be configured to be sealingly coupled to the body 224 of the colostrum collecting container 208. For example, the cover 272 may be sealingly coupled to the body 224 via a snap fit over the first opening 224a of the body 224. However, in other examples, the cap 272 may be sealingly coupled to the colostrum collection container 208 via a threaded connection. In any event, cover 272 includes a base 276 coupled to body 224 and a sealing member 280 extending from base 276. In particular, sealing member 280 extends from base 276 to at least aperture 232 when cover 272 is coupled to body 224, thereby sealing aperture 232. So configured, fluid cannot flow through the aperture 232 when the cap 272 is coupled to the body 224, which allows the colostrum collection container 208 to be transported throughout and stored in the medical facility without fear that the colostrum retained in the colostrum collection container 208 will spill or otherwise be lost. In particular, the sealing member 280 includes a sealing surface 284, the sealing surface 284 engaging the divider 240, thereby forming a seal that prevents the passage of the colostrum stored within the colostrum collection container 208 through the aperture 232.

Although the colostrum collection container 208 has been discussed as being slidably received by the connector 212, the colostrum collection container 208 may be coupled to the connector 212 in different ways. For example, the second opening 224b of the colostrum collection container 208 may be threaded and the first opening 288a of the connector 212 may be threaded in a complementary manner to the threads of the second opening 224 b. In such examples, the threaded nature of the colostrum collection vessel 208 and the connector 212 may reduce the likelihood of disconnection of the colostrum collection vessel 208 and the connector 212 during use. Advantageously, this configuration may reduce, if not eliminate, spillage of the colostrum retained in the colostrum collection container 208.

Fig. 7 and 8 illustrate another view of the breastshield 204 releasably received by the colostrum collection container 208. In particular, the first opening 224a of the colostrum collecting container 208 slidably receives the sleeve 220 of the breastshield 204, such as a nipple tunnel. The sleeve 220 extends a distance into the body 224 of the colostrum collecting vessel 208. So configured, the sleeve 220 directs the first fluid and the second fluid into the colostrum collection container 208. As best seen in fig. 8, the apertures 232 are provided on the divider 228. In particular, and in this example, the aperture 232 is disposed on an inclined surface 252 of the divider 228 between the first section 244 and the second section 248. So configured, the first fluid and the second fluid may flow from the sleeve 220 of the breastshield 204 into the colostrum collection container 204, through the aperture 232, and out the second opening 224b of the colostrum collection container 204.

Turning now to fig. 9 and 10, an example of a fluid flow path 256 through the breastmilk discharge system 200 is depicted. Typically, the vacuum created by the vacuum generator (e.g., vacuum generator 116 of FIG. 1) causes fluid to flow through the colostrum collection container 208. In addition, the size and location of the orifice 232 and the amount of the first fluid (e.g., colostrum) in the colostrum collection container 208 determine which fluid or fluids will flow through the colostrum collection container 208, e.g., as explained in more detail below. Additionally, in one example, the first fluid is one or more of colostrum and/or milk and the second fluid is at least one of air and/or milk.

Referring now to fig. 9, the first set of arrows 304 and the second set of arrows 308 generally illustrate fluid flow through the breastmilk expression system 200 when the primary collection container 208 is not filled to a maximum capacity. In particular, a first set of arrows 304 in solid form depicts a vacuum flow path and a fluid flow path for a second fluid (e.g., breast milk and air). Additionally, a second set of arrows 308 in dashed form depict the fluid flow path of the first fluid (e.g., colostrum and/or milk). In one example, the fluid flow path of each of the first fluid and the second fluid is initially the same, such as when both the first fluid flow and the second fluid flow through the first opening 224a of the body 224, as explained more below. Once a vacuum is created in the breastshield 204 to expel breast milk, a second fluid (e.g., expelled breast milk and/or air) flows from the breastshield 204 to the colostrum collection container 208 and through the colostrum collection container 208 and into the connector 212, as depicted by the first set of arrows 304. As the second fluid (e.g., expelled breast milk and/or air) flows through the breast milk discharge system 200 (first set of arrows 304), the expelled first fluid (e.g., colostrum and/or breast milk) is retained within the colostrum collection container 208 with the assistance of gravity, as depicted by the second set of arrows 308, until the first fluid (e.g., colostrum) reaches a maximum capacity, as explained in more detail below. In other words, and in one example, when a vacuum is created in the fluid flow path 256, a first fluid flows through the first opening 224a of the body 224 and is collected in the receptacle 228 with the assistance of gravity, and a second fluid flows through the first opening 224a, the aperture 232 of the receptacle 228, and the second opening 224b of the body. This occurs when the first fluid (e.g., colostrum) disposed in the receptacle 228 is below the at least one visual indicator 264, which at least one visual indicator 264 is a visual indicator 264a in this example (see also fig. 5). For example, once the first fluid is at or beyond the at least one visual indicator 264, the first fluid has a different flow path, as explained in more detail below.

More specifically and referring now to fig. 10, a third set of arrows 312 and a fourth set of arrows 316 are depicted, the third set of arrows 312 and the fourth set of arrows 316 illustrating fluid flow through the milk discharge system 200 when the primary milk collection container 208 is filled to maximum capacity. In particular, a third set of arrows 312, 256 in solid form depict a vacuum flow path and a fluid flow path for a second fluid (e.g., breast milk, air). Additionally, a fourth set of arrows 316 in dashed form depicts the flow of the first fluid (e.g., colostrum). As depicted in fig. 10, the fluid flow through the breast milk discharge system 200 when the amount of the first fluid is equal to or greater than the maximum capacity is different than the fluid flow when the amount of the first fluid (e.g., colostrum) in the colostrum collection container 108 in fig. 9 is less than the maximum fluid capacity, such as less than the at least one visual indicator 264.

In particular, once a vacuum is created in the breastshield 204 to expel breast milk, a second fluid (e.g., expelled breast milk) flows from the breastshield 204 to the colostrum collection container 208 and through the colostrum collection container 208, and into the connector 212, as depicted by the third set of arrows 312. As the second fluid (e.g., expelled breast milk, air) flows through the breast milk discharge system 200 (third set of arrows 312), the first fluid (e.g., colostrum) initially expelled and the second fluid (e.g., breast milk) flow from the breastshield 204 into the colostrum collection container 208, through the aperture 232, and into the connector 212, as depicted by the fourth set of arrows 316.

More specifically, and in this example, when a first fluid (e.g., colostrum) disposed in the receptacle 228 is at or above the at least one visual indicator 264, the first fluid and the second fluid flow from the first opening 224a through the aperture 232 and to the second opening 224b of the body 224. In one example, the first fluid may initially flow from the first opening 224a of the body 224 and into the receptacle 228, but then eventually flow through the aperture 232 and to the second opening 224b leading to the connector 212, as explained above.

In view of the foregoing, it should be appreciated that the colostrum collection container 108, 208 used in the breast milk discharge system 100, 200 may employ the following method for collecting colostrum during breast milk discharge. For example, the method may include providing a colostrum collection container 108, 208, the colostrum collection container 108, 208 including a first opening 224a, a second opening 224b, a receiving portion 228 disposed between the first opening 224a and the second opening 224b and having an orifice 232, and a fluid flow path 256 including the first opening 224a, the second opening 224b, and the orifice 232. Once the colostrum collection vessel 108, 208 is provided, the method includes creating a vacuum in a portion of the fluid flow path 256 and selectively allowing fluid to flow from the first opening 224a to the second opening 224b of the colostrum collection vessel 108, 208 via the orifice 232 and the vacuum. When a vacuum is created, the method then includes collecting the first fluid in the receptacle 228 of the colostrum collection container 108, 208 using gravity assist and vacuum while continuing to flow the second fluid from the first opening through the aperture 232 and to the second opening 224b of the colostrum collection container 108, 208.

In the example methods of collecting colostrum discussed above, providing the colostrum collection container 108, 208 may further comprise disposing at least one visual indicator 26a, 264b, 264c on the body 224 such that a visual indicator of the at least one visual indicator 264a, 264b, 264c specifies the maximum fluid capacity of the body 224. The example method of collecting colostrum may further include collecting the first fluid in the receptacle 228 while the first fluid in the receptacle 228 is below the at least one visual indicator 264a, 264b, 264c while flowing the second fluid from the receptacle 228 to the second opening 224b through the fluid flow path 256. The example method of collecting colostrum may further include collecting the first fluid in the receptacle 228 until the first fluid in the receptacle 228 is at or above the at least one visual indicator 264a, 264b, 264c, at which time at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid flows from the receptacle 228 to the second opening 224b through the fluid flow path 256.

An example method of collecting colostrum may further include coupling the cap 272 to the body 224 of the colostrum collecting vessel 104, 204. The cover 272 has a base 276 and a sealing member 280 that extends from the base 276 to at least the aperture 232 when the cover 272 is coupled to the body 224, thereby sealing the aperture 232. In some examples, providing the colostrum collection container 108, 208 may further include providing a visual indicator 264a, 264b, 264c on the body 224 that is oriented at an angle α relative to the vertical axis 268 of the body 224 such that when the body 224 is tilted, the visual indicator 264a, 264b, 264c specifies the maximum fluid capacity of the body 224.

In view of the foregoing, it should be appreciated that the following methods may be employed for assembling the colostrum collection container 108, 208 for use in the breast milk discharge system 100, 200. For example, a method of assembling the colostrum collection vessel 108, 208 may include: providing a body having a first opening 224a and a second opening 224 b; providing a receiver 228 within the body 224 and coupling a portion of the receiver 228 to the body 224, the receiver 28 including a wall 228a having an aperture 232; and forming a fluid flow path 256 including first and second openings 224a, 224b and an aperture 232 of the receptacle 228 such that when a vacuum is created in the fluid flow path 256, the first fluid is allowed to collect in the receptacle 228 and the second fluid is allowed to flow through the aperture 232 and to the second opening 224b.

The example methods of assembling the colostrum collection vessel 108, 208 discussed above may further include disposing the assembly guide 234 proximate the first opening 224a of the body 224. In some examples, the method may further include coupling the breastshield 104, 204 to the first opening 224a of the body 224 using the assembly guide 234. The example method of assembling the colostrum collection container 108, 208 may further include providing at least one visual indicator 264a, 264b, 264c on the body 224 such that a visual indicator of the at least one visual indicator 264a, 264b, 264c specifies the maximum fluid capacity of the body 224.

Further, forming the fluid flow path 256 described in the example method of assembling the colostrum collection container 108, 208 may further include forming an aperture 232 on the receiving portion 228 such that when the first fluid in the receiving portion 228 is below the at least one visual indicator 264a, 264b, 264c, the second fluid flows from the first opening 224a through the aperture 232 and to the second opening 224b of the fluid flow path 256. In some examples, forming the fluid flow path 256 includes forming an aperture 232 on the receiving portion 228 such that when the first fluid in the receiving portion 228 is at or above the at least one visual indicator 264a, 264b, 264c, the first fluid and the second fluid flow from the first opening 224a through the aperture 232 and to the second opening 224b of the fluid flow path 256. In some examples, the method of assembly may further include coupling the cover 272 to the body 224. The cover 272 has a base 276 and a sealing member 280 extending from the base 276 to at least the aperture 232 when the cover 276 is coupled to the body 224.

In view of the foregoing, it will be appreciated that the breast milk discharge system 100, 200 and related methods of the present disclosure have several advantages. For example, the aperture 232 of the colostrum collection vessel 108, 208 forms a fluid flow path 256 from the first opening 224a through the aperture 232 and to the second opening 224b, which fluid flow path 256 may maintain a clinical vacuum and selectively allow fluid flow of the second fluid (e.g., breast milk, air) through the aperture 232 while retaining the first fluid (e.g., colostrum) in the colostrum collection vessel 108, 208. As another example, positioning the colostrum collection container 108, 208 within the milk discharge system 100, 200 allows the colostrum discharged during milk discharge to contact a minimum amount of surface throughout the milk discharge system 100, 200, which may increase the amount of colostrum collected. As yet another example, the assembly guide 234 of the colostrum collection container 108, 208 facilitates assembly of the breast milk discharge system 100, 200 by selectively allowing the colostrum collection container 108, 208 to receive certain other components of the breast milk discharge system 100, 200. Finally, as another example, a cap 272 sealingly coupled to the body 224 of the colostrum collection container 108, 208 may seal the aperture 232 and securely retain the collected colostrum in the colostrum collection container 108, 208 during transportation and storage, providing yet another benefit.

Although various examples have been described above, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited thereto. Variations may be made to the disclosed examples that remain within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims (49)

1. A colostrum collection container comprising:

a body having a first opening configured to receive a breastshield and a second opening configured to be operatively coupled to a vacuum generator;

a divider sealingly disposed within the body such that a first chamber is disposed between the first opening and the divider and a second chamber is disposed between the divider and the second opening;

an orifice disposed on the divider such that the orifice fluidly couples the first and second chambers; and

a fluid flow path extending from the first opening of the body through the aperture of the divider and to the second opening of the body,

wherein when a vacuum is created in at least one of the first and second chambers, a first fluid is collected in the first chamber with the assistance of gravity while a second fluid flows from the first chamber to the second chamber through the fluid flow path.

2. The colostrum collecting container of claim 1, wherein the body comprises a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the first opening being provided at the first end and the second opening being provided at the second end.

3. The colostrum collection container of any one of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first fluid is more viscous than the second fluid.

4. A colostrum collecting vessel according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first fluid comprises one or more of colostrum and/or milk and the second fluid comprises at least one of air and/or milk.

5. The colostrum collection container of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the body comprises a lip extending radially outwardly from the first opening.

6. The colostrum collecting container of claim 5, wherein the lip is integrally formed with the body.

7. The colostrum collection container of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the divider is sealingly coupled to the body proximate the first opening.

8. The colostrum collection container of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the divider comprises at least one visual indicator that specifies a maximum fluid capacity of the body.

9. The colostrum collection container of claim 8, wherein the aperture is provided on the divider such that the second fluid flows from the first chamber to the second chamber through the fluid flow path when the first fluid in the first chamber is below the at least one visual indicator.

10. The colostrum collection container of claim 8, wherein the aperture is provided on the divider such that the first fluid and the second fluid flow from the first chamber to the second chamber through the fluid flow path when the first fluid disposed in the first chamber is at or above the at least one visual indicator.

11. The colostrum collection container of any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising a cap configured to be sealingly coupled to the body, the cap having a base and a sealing member extending from the base to at least the aperture when the cap is coupled to the body, thereby sealing the aperture.

12. The colostrum collection container of claim 8, wherein a visual indicator of the at least one visual indicator is oriented at an angle relative to a vertical axis of the body such that the visual indicator of the at least one visual indicator specifies a maximum fluid capacity of the body when the body is tilted.

13. A colostrum collection container comprising:

a body having a first opening configured to receive a breastshield and a second opening;

a receiver sealingly disposed within the body, the receiver having an aperture configured to fluidly couple the first and second openings of the body; and

a fluid flow path extending from the first opening through the orifice and to the second opening,

wherein a first fluid flows through the first opening of the body and is collected in the receptacle with the assistance of gravity, and a second fluid flows through the first opening, the orifice, and the second opening of the body.

14. The colostrum collection container of claim 13, wherein the body further comprises a lip extending radially outward from the first opening.

15. The colostrum collecting container of claim 14, wherein the lip is integrally formed with the body.

16. The colostrum collecting container according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the body comprises a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the first opening being provided at the first end of the body and the second opening being provided at the second end of the body.

17. The colostrum collection container of any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the first fluid comprises one or more of colostrum and/or milk and the second fluid comprises at least one of air and/or milk.

18. The colostrum collecting container of any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein the receiving portion is sealingly disposed in the body proximate the first opening of the body.

19. The colostrum collection container of any one of claims 13 to 18, wherein the receptacle comprises at least one visual indicator specifying a maximum fluid capacity of the body.

20. The colostrum collection container of claim 19, wherein the aperture is provided on the receiving portion such that the second fluid flows from the first opening through the aperture and to the second opening of the body when the first fluid in the receiving portion is below the at least one visual indicator.

21. The colostrum collection container of claim 19, wherein the aperture is provided on the receiving portion such that when the first fluid in the receiving portion is at or above the at least one visual indicator, the first fluid and the second fluid flow from the first opening through the aperture and to the second opening of the body.

22. The colostrum collection container of any one of claims 13 to 21, further comprising a cap sealingly coupled to the body, the cap having a base and a sealing member extending from the base to at least the aperture when the cap is coupled to the body, thereby sealing the aperture.

23. The colostrum collection container of claim 19, wherein a visual indicator of the at least one visual indicator is oriented at an angle relative to a vertical axis of the body such that the visual indicator of the at least one visual indicator specifies a maximum fluid capacity of the body when the body is tilted.

24. A breast milk evacuation system, the system comprising:

a breast shield;

a colostrum collection container releasably coupled to the breastshield, the colostrum collection container comprising:

a body having a first opening to receive the breastshield and a second opening disposed opposite the first opening;

a receiver sealingly disposed within the body, the receiver having an aperture fluidly coupling the first and second openings of the body; and

A fluid flow path extending from the first opening through the aperture and to the second opening; and

a connector coupled to the second opening of the colostrum collection vessel, wherein when a vacuum is created in the fluid flow path, a first fluid is collected in the receptacle with the assistance of gravity and a second fluid flows through the orifice and to the second opening.

25. The breast milk ejection system of claim 24, further comprising an overflow container releasably received by the connector and a vacuum generator fluidly coupled to the connector and the colostrum collection container.

26. The breast milk ejection system of any one of claims 24 or 25, wherein the colostrum collection container further comprises an assembly guide disposed proximate the first opening of the colostrum collection container, the assembly guide extending radially outwardly from the first opening and configured to facilitate coupling of the breastshield to the colostrum collection container.

27. The breast milk ejection system of claim 26, wherein the assembly guide is integrally formed with the body of the colostrum collection container.

28. The breast milk ejection system of any one of claims 24 to 27, wherein the body of the colostrum collection container comprises a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the first opening being provided at the first end and the second opening being provided at the second end.

29. The breast milk ejection system of any one of claims 24 to 28, wherein the first fluid comprises one or more of colostrum and/or milk and the second fluid comprises at least one of air and/or milk.

30. The breast milk ejection system of any one of claims 24 to 29, wherein the receptacle is sealingly coupled to the body proximate the first opening.

31. The breast milk ejection system of any one of claims 24 to 30, wherein the receptacle comprises at least one visual indicator that displays a maximum fill level of the receptacle.

32. The breast milk ejection system of claim 31, wherein the aperture is provided on the receptacle such that the second fluid flows from the first opening through the aperture and to the second opening of the body when the first fluid in the receptacle is below the at least one visual indicator.

33. The breast milk ejection system of claim 31, wherein the aperture is provided on the receptacle such that when the first fluid in the receptacle is at or above the at least one visual indicator, the first fluid and the second fluid flow from the first opening through the aperture and to the second opening of the body.

34. The breast milk ejection system of any one of claims 24 to 33, further comprising a cap sealingly coupled to the body, the cap having a base and a sealing member extending from the base to at least the aperture when the cap is coupled to the body, thereby sealing the aperture.

35. The breastmilk discharge system of claim 31, wherein a visual indicator of the at least one visual indicator is oriented at an angle relative to a vertical axis of the body such that the visual indicator of the at least one visual indicator specifies a maximum fluid capacity of the body when the body is tilted.

36. A method of collecting colostrum during milk discharge, the method comprising:

providing a colostrum collection container comprising a first opening, a second opening, a receiving portion provided between the first opening and the second opening and having an orifice, and a fluid flow path comprising the first opening and the second opening and the orifice; and

A first fluid is collected in the receiving portion of the colostrum collection container using gravity assist and vacuum while a second fluid continues to flow from the first opening through the orifice and to the second opening of the colostrum collection container.

37. The method of claim 36, wherein providing the colostrum collection vessel further comprises providing at least one visual indicator on the body such that a visual indicator of the at least one visual indicator specifies a maximum fluid capacity of the body.

38. The method of claim 37, wherein collecting the first fluid further comprises collecting the first fluid in the receptacle while flowing the second fluid from the receptacle to the second opening through the fluid flow path when the first fluid in the receptacle is below the at least one visual indicator.

39. The method of claim 37, wherein collecting the first fluid further comprises collecting the first fluid in the receptacle until the first fluid in the receptacle is at or above the at least one visual indicator, at which time at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid flows from the receptacle to the second opening through the fluid flow path.

40. The method of any one of claims 36 to 39, further comprising coupling a cap to the body of the colostrum collection container, the cap having a base and a sealing member extending from the base to at least the aperture when the cap is coupled to the body, thereby sealing the aperture.

41. The method of any one of claims 36 to 40, wherein providing the colostrum collection vessel further comprises providing a visual indicator on the body, the visual indicator oriented at an angle relative to a vertical axis of the body such that when the body is tilted, the visual indicator specifies a maximum fluid capacity of the body.

42. The method of any one of claims 36 to 41, further comprising creating a vacuum in a portion of the fluid flow path and selectively allowing fluid to flow from the first opening to the second opening of the colostrum collection vessel via the orifice and the vacuum.

43. A method of assembling a colostrum collection container, the method comprising:

providing a body having a first opening and a second opening;

providing a receptacle within the body and coupling a portion of the receptacle to the body, the receptacle including a wall having an aperture; and

Forming a fluid flow path including the first and second openings and the orifice of the receiving portion,

such that when a vacuum is created in the fluid flow path, a first fluid is allowed to collect in the receptacle and a second fluid is allowed to flow through the orifice and to the second opening.

44. The method of claim 43, further comprising disposing an assembly guide proximate the first opening of the body.

45. The method of claim 44, further comprising coupling a breastshield to the first opening of the body using the assembly guide.

46. The method of any one of claims 43 to 45, further comprising providing at least one visual indicator on the body such that a visual indicator of the at least one visual indicator specifies a maximum fluid capacity of the body.

47. The method of claim 46, wherein forming the fluid flow path comprises forming the aperture on the receptacle such that when the first fluid in the receptacle is below the at least one visual indicator, the second fluid flows from the first opening through the aperture and to the second opening of the body.

48. The method of claim 46, wherein forming the fluid flow path comprises forming the aperture on the receptacle such that when the first fluid in the receptacle is at or above the at least one visual indicator, the first fluid and the second fluid flow from the first opening through the aperture and to the second opening of the body.

49. The method of any one of claims 43 to 48, further comprising coupling a cap to the body, the cap having a base and a sealing member extending from the base to at least the aperture when the cap is coupled to the body.